Omega-3 Index (fingerstick)
Analyzes omega-3 and omega-6 ratio via finger-prick. Indicates inflammatory balance.
Capillary Blood Home Test
How it works
- 01
Receive your fingerstick kit
You receive a fingerstick kit with clear instructions
- 02
Prick & collect
Easily collect a few drops of blood yourself
- 03
Mail back
Return via medical mail to the lab
Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids and must be obtained through diet. The decisive factor, however, is not sufficient intake, but especially their interrelationship. An excess of omega-6 fatty acids, for example, suppresses omega-3 molecules and thereby increases the risk for ventricular fibrillation.
As a result of changes in our eating patterns, a fatal imbalance has arisen in recent decades in the optimal ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.
In the Stone Age (and among contemporary Inuit), the ratio of omega-3 fatty acids to omega-6 fatty acids was 1:1.
However, the food in contemporary industrialized countries is so low in omega-3 fatty acids and high in omega-6 fatty acids that a ratio of 1:10 to 1:20 has developed. This has very unfavorable effects on health, as omega-6 fatty acids are pro-inflammatory.
The Omega-3 index measures the percentage of omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the total fatty acid content in the blood. The ideal percentage is between 8 and 11%.
A low omega-3 index (<4%) is an indication of a pro-inflammatory state in the body, in which chronic inflammations can optimally develop.
Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (α-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)) and omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid, arachidonic acid) are incorporated into the cell membrane and converted into prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. The prostacyclins and thromboxanes formed from omega-3 fatty acids inhibit platelet aggregation and have anti-inflammatory effects. This is in contrast to the prostacyclins and thromboxanes formed from the omega-6 fatty acid arachidonic acid.
A higher Omega-3 Index is linked to healthy aging and offers several benefits for body and mind. Omega-3 supports the immune system and the brain at every stage of life; from brain development in children to the preservation of cognitive functions (memory, concentration) in later life. Additionally, omega-3 has a favorable effect on the development of vision and eye health, as well as on heart function. Among the essential cardio-protective properties of omega-3 fatty acids are the lowering of triglyceride levels and also an increase in HDL-cholesterol levels. Omega-3 fatty acids lower blood pressure, dilate small blood vessels, hinder platelet aggregation, and improve blood fluidity. Moreover, they have been shown to have a stabilizing effect on plaques in the carotid artery. The most important cardio-protective property of omega-3 fatty acids is their anti-arrhythmic action.
A favorable influence of omega-3 fatty acids is also observed in mental disorders. New research indicates that the use of omega-3 fatty acids can positively influence conditions such as schizophrenia, (manic) depression, and ADHD.
Indication-specific evidence
This test has clinical value for specific complaints or indications, but is not intended as screening without symptoms.
Rationale for this test
De omega-3-index (EPA+DHA percentage in erytrocyten) is een gevalideerde biomarker voor omega-3-status en cardiovasculair risico. De test heeft klinische waarde bij specifieke indicaties zoals cardiovasculaire risicobeoordeling of bij verdenking op omega-3-deficiëntie, maar is niet opgenomen in Nederlandse zorgrichtlijnen als standaard-screening voor de algemene populatie. De.
Independent information sources
We recommend consulting these independent sources before ordering a preventive health check.
- Client brochure PGO (NVvPG, September 2023)
Brochure on preventive health checks: careful choice, reliability, pros and cons, checklist.
- RIVM — Health tests
Independent information about preventive health checks from the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment.
- Thuisarts.nl
Reliable patient information about illnesses and complaints from Dutch GPs (NHG).
- Allesovertesten.nl (NVKC)
Public-facing website of the Dutch Society for Clinical Chemistry with explanations of blood tests and laboratory values.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to what people usually want to know.
See fingerstick instructionsFull instructions with visual guidanceHow does the fingerstick test work from A to Z?
After ordering we ship the collection kit to your home. You prick your fingertip, collect a few drops of blood, return it in the envelope, and receive your result digitally by email.
How do I collect my blood sample?
A small prick on your fingertip lets you collect a few drops into a tube. The instructions include step-by-step photos and video, so no guessing required.
When and how do I receive my result?
Usually 2 to 5 working days after the lab receives your sample. You get an email with a link to your digital result, including explanation per value.
What if the collection doesn't work?
Some people find the fingerstick tricky at first. Warm your hands, hang your arm down, and prick the side of the fingertip for better blood flow. If it still doesn't work, get in touch.
How do I return my sample to the lab?
In the included return envelope with free medical shipping. Drop it in the mailbox; the lab processes your sample as soon as it arrives. For some tests it's important to send it the same day — the instructions make this clear.
What if I have questions or something doesn't work?
Feel free to contact us via WhatsApp, email or phone. We're happy to help you before, during or after your test. If the collection doesn't work, we'll arrange a solution or send new materials — no hassle.
Didn't find what you're looking for? Request a custom test
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Received a packet with everything needed, went to a walk in clinic (Amsterdam DC Clinic) where my blood was drawn and I was out the door within 5 minutes, and then after posting the samples, received results 2 days later. Results were easy to understand as well. Amazing service, would highly recommend!